Kaposi Sarcoma - Symptoms & Treatment
Kaposi's sarcoma is a cancer which causes patches of anomalous tissue to grow under the skin, in the lining of the mouth, nose, and throat or in other organs. When it is sited on the skin, KS presents as small bruise-like areas which are not afflictive and do not itch. In fact, they are often fallacious for simple bruises. KS appears about eight times more often in gay men than in women. If insulared to the skin, KS is not life threatening. All the same, if KS forms in the intestinal track, lungs, brain or other internal organs, it can have serious consequences and can even be fatal. KS is now supposed to be caused by a virus called human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8), which is also known as Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpes virus (KSHV). In the occurrence of other factors – such as immune suppression or other effects of HIV in the body – HHV-8 is thought to encourage normal cells to change into tumour cells. KS affects about 20% of people suffering from AIDS who aren't taking anti-HIV drugs. The range of KS has dropped by oer 80% since the introduction of strong antiviral medications. Inspite of its name, it is generally not considered a true sarcoma, which is a tumor arising from connective tissue. KS actually emanates as a cancer of lymphatic endothelium and forms vascular channels that fill with blood cells, giving the tumor its characteristic bruise-like appearance.
Causes of Kaposi Sarcoma
Common causes and risk factor's of Kaposi Sarcoma include the following :
- HIV infection.
- Drugs that suppress the immune system.
Symptoms of Kaposi Sarcoma
Some common Symptoms of Kaposi Sarcoma :
- Small, painless, flat area (lesion) or lump on skin.
- Other type of illness such as lymphoma or tuberculosis.
- Non-specific symptoms such as fever, weight loss and sweating.
- Profound air hunger and Illness of months or years.
- Advanced skin lesions are usually only gently uncomfortable, though painful ulcers may occur.
Treatment of Kaposi Sarcoma
- Chemotherapy.
- Radiation therapy.
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